Ex Zavalla judge files lawsuit against mayor, council members

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A former Zavalla municipal judge has filed a federal lawsuit against the mayor and council members, following his termination on Aug. 7.

Bruce Milstead alleges his firing came in retaliation for reporting a possible crime by former mayor Greg Fletcher, who is the son of the current mayor, Jimmy Davis.

According to the lawsuit, Fletcher used City of Zavalla money to purchase $1,000 worth of tires for $500 for his personal use in Fall 2011. Fletcher then reimbursed the city but did not pay sales tax on the tires.

Milstead reported the incident to Ranger Steve Rayburn, who determined Fletcher violated the law, according to the complaint.

Fletcher resigned in December 2011 and Milstead alleges Davis announced he would run for mayor and would "kick everyone out who had anything to do with getting his son investigated."

Council members Sue Hough, Pam Hooks and Nicole Yarborough voted to fire Milstead on Aug. 7.

Milstead alleges the termination came in retaliation, a violation of the 14th Amendment.

Deputies with Angelina County Sheriff's Office arrested a Diboll man on Sunday after he fled from law enforcement and leading them on a foot chase. Justin Jones, 23, was a wanted person with outstanding felony warrants.

Deputies with Angelina County Sheriff's Office arrested a Diboll man on Sunday after he fled from law enforcement and leading them on a foot chase. Justin Jones, 23, was a wanted person with outstanding felony warrants.